Local Island resident Kay Unsworth – who runs Isle of Wight Bird Rehabilitation, commonly known as Mr ‘Wally’ AWOL and Friends – is being forced to retire from her animal work as a result of illness.
Kay, who has lived on the Isle of Wight all her life, formed a close working relationship with many Island vets who helped aid the recovery of the birds in her care wherever possible.
Able to provide all of the ongoing aftercare, from cleaning and healing wounds to splinting and stabilizing fractures with donations and support from local residents, Kay and her charity were at risk of closing a few months ago when their funding levels dwindled.
But donations came in after a plea was lodged on their Facebook page allowing the centre to stay open for a few months more until the news came on Sunday that they would have to close.
In a statement released on her Facebook page Kay said:
“It is with a heavy and very sad heart that I need to inform you that I will be closing permanently to wild bird rehab. I would urge anyone with standing orders to the bank to please cancel them.
“I still have over 200 birds here waiting to be healed, raised and released and I will maintain my commitment to those who are residents for the rest of their natural lives. Approx 34 birds.”
She then added:
“My health has been failing, and although I am awaiting many tests and procedures, even if nothing major untoward is found, with many smaller health issues accumulating, continuing will be putting birds at risk of accidental harm, which I am not prepared to do.
” I will hopefully head more toward the education sector. Keeping up on all latest news and rehab laws and new developments. I May visit schools, do a little field work, help any vets/nurses or other animal sanctuaries who have asked previously for teaching support and mentor those who may be capable of filling in the rehabilitation gaps.
“I’m here folks. I’m not disappearing, just about in another capacity that hopefully won’t lead me to an early grave. Last but not least. All of you for your trust, love and support over the years.”
You have done a great job well done. Happy retirement.
Wish i could step in and continue her good work.
What a lovely unselfish person, I hope your health improves and someone else can carry on the work you have done. Whilst the birds can never thank you, if only they could understand how much care you have given them they would, as it is, let us all say thank you on their behalf.